Mobilizing Civil Society in the EECA Region for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and HIV Advocacy

In a concerted effort to address critical issues surrounding Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and HIV in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) region, civil society organizations (CSOs) convened for a working meeting ahead of the High-Level Meeting (HLM). Representatives from Moldova, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, and Georgia, alongside regional organizations such as TBEC, ITPC EECA, and TB People, gathered to discuss the state of progress and advocacy strategies.

Empowering CSOs: A Shared Vision

The meeting began with a warm welcome from Eamonn Murphy, UNAIDS EECA Regional Executive Director, who underscored the pivotal role of CSOs in the UHC political declaration negotiations. This set the tone for a productive dialogue aimed at advancing key advocacy points. “CSOs play a pivotal role in the UHC political declaration negotiations. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to HAC for their exemplary leadership in the EECA region in mobilizing and coordinating civil society efforts towards achieving UHC goals.” – said Mr. Murphy.

Data Deficiency: A Pressing Concern

Participants highlighted a significant data gap within the EECA region. The Global AIDS Monitoring (GAM) report and the Global Monitoring report on UHC both revealed that EECA countries are struggling to provide accurate and timely data. CSOs and international institutions must prioritize addressing this issue through concerted advocacy efforts.

Inclusive Delegations: A Call for Accountability

Serious concerns were raised regarding the reluctance of some EECA countries to involve civil society in their National Delegations for the High-Level Meeting on TB. Denis Godlevskiy, CSEM, facilitated an interactive discussion on “Country Assessment of the Progress on UHC”. He also shared insights during a session titled “What is Important: Side Events Review and Coordination of Position Statements”, where strategies for enhancing civil society involvement were discussed. The lack of engagement contradicts the principles of Greater Involvement of People Living with HIV/AIDS (GIPA) and community participation. Instances of CS representatives being included in National Delegations were celebrated as best practices to be emulated.

Advocating for Consensus: Next Steps After the High-Level Meeting

In a forward-looking session, Serhii Dmytriev, HAC, presented “2024 and Beyond: Next Steps After the High-Level Meeting.” His presentation shed light on the path forward for advocacy and collaboration in the post-HLM landscape, emphasizing the importance of sustained efforts in the EECA region. “I want to express my gratitude to community organizations and civil society for their active participation in shaping the regional position for the high-level meeting. This applies both to this consultation and the formulation of the political declaration. Finally, the voice of affected communities in the region on UHC matters will be heard at such a high level.” – emphasized Mr. Dmytriev. 

Capacity Building and Communication: Key to Success

The meeting acknowledged the progress made in raising awareness among CS representatives on UHC issues over the past year and a half. It highlighted the importance of investing in capacity building to enable organizations to effectively engage with stakeholders. Timely access to HLM documents in all UN languages was also identified as a critical need.

Unity in Times of Crisis

Acknowledging the ongoing crises, including conflicts and humanitarian challenges in the region, participants emphasized the need for collaboration with other communities facing health-related issues. Solidarity and alliances are deemed crucial to safeguarding access to healthcare as a fundamental human right in the face of shifting political priorities.

As CSOs continue to advocate for UHC and HIV policies that benefit the EECA region, the working meeting served as a platform for fruitful discussions and collective action. The commitment to data transparency, inclusive delegations, and post-HLM accountability reflects a shared vision for a healthier future in the EECA region.

Also read:

Round table on optimizing the cost of HIV treatment and diagnostic tools in Kyrgyzstan

EECA’s proposals for inclusion in a political declaration on UHC